Mark Rieken, Monticello School Board

     Personal history/family/work: I live on Washington Street in Monticello with my wife, Christine, and twin daughters, Lorelei and Miranda (ninth-graders). I graduated from Monticello High School in 1989 and the University of Iowa in 1993. I drive to Marion every day to work at our family business, Rieken’s Racing.

     Why did you decide to run for school board? I decided to run for school board to ensure that my children receive the same excellent education at Monticello schools that, myself, received. I am especially interested in parental rights when it comes to the curriculum and any potential mandates. I want to keep the extreme politics out of our children’s education. It does not belong there. I want to ensure the MCSD represents the core values, beliefs, and priorities of our community. I will bring a common-sense approach to all issues facing Monticello schools.

     What do you see as the current challenges facing public education in the Monticello School District and our state? What is your position on the future of the school facilities within the MCSD? The people of Monticello need to make several property decisions soon. What will happen to the old middle school property? Will the elementary schools be replaced with a new addition at the current high school site? And then what to do with those properties if new construction is approved? We need to make wise decisions that are both fiscally sound and ensure high quality construction. The public was well informed about the plan for the middle school. That same opened and transparency needs to continue with the future plan for the elementary. We need a good return on our investment while still focusing on student achievement.

     What are 2-3 strengths of which our district can be proud of? I think the new middle school addition is great for our community. I know my children love the facilities. I would think a similar approach is needed when moving forward with the elementary school. Monticello can and should be proud of our community involvement in our school activities. I am looking forward to serving on board and learning all I can as quickly as possible about Monticello schools.